AUSTRALIA is the "ideal location" for a high-level nuclear waste dump and South Australia should seriously consider hosting it, Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop says. 
The Nuclear Fuel Cycle Royal Commission has proposed SA store spent nuclear fuel from overseas in underground chambers, saying it could bring in about $5 billion a year and create thousands of jobs.
Ms Bishop, below, highlighted the commission's interim findings that there were long-term employment and economic benefits for the state.
In the wake of her visit last week to Japan and China, she said those countries, along with South Korea, could be interested in storage solutions.
Other potential customers include Germany, Spain, the Netherlands and South Africa.
"Australia is the leading exporter of uranium and that is playing a significant role in limiting global carbon emissions," she told The Advertiser.
"There are sound economic reasons for engaging more fully in the nuclear fuel cycle. I really think it's something SA should consider.
"Australia's â€¦ reputation in non-proliferation and governance and our stable geology would make us an ideal location." Bipartisan support would be needed for the proposal to go ahead. The Government is in favour while the Opposition is not yet committed.
Industry Minister and senior SA Liberal Christopher Pyne said he was "very open-minded" about the idea because it would help the world while improving SA's economy and unemployment rate.
Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has indicated he is open to the idea as long as there is community support, an economic benefit, and reassurance of environmental protection.
However, Labor's position is far from being a given.PAGE 18: REX JORY